See what actually lands in your bank account.
Enter your pay, filing status, and pre-tax deductions to estimate your 2024 take-home paycheck. Watch federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare, and any state tax come out, then see exactly what is left.
Your pay
Estimate for the 2024 tax year. Uses 2024 federal brackets, the standard deduction, and the $168,600 Social Security wage base. State tax is a flat rate you enter. This excludes local taxes, tax credits, and additional withholding from your W-4.
What your numbers mean
Where each paycheck goes
Paycheck breakdown
Paycheck scorecard
Full breakdown, per paycheck and annually
Every line is a 2024 estimate. Taxes are figured on your annual pay, then divided by 26 pay periods.
| Line item | Per paycheck | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Take-home pay |
Your paycheck, explained
How Your Paycheck Is Calculated
Your net paycheck is determined by subtracting all mandatory withholdings and voluntary deductions from your gross pay. The process begins with your gross earnings for the pay period, then subtracts federal income tax (based on your W-4 filing status and allowances), FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare), and any applicable state and local taxes. The remaining amount, after voluntary deductions like retirement contributions and insurance premiums, is your take-home pay.
Federal Income Tax Withholding
Federal income tax withholding is calculated based on the information you provide on IRS Form W-4, including your filing status and any adjustments for dependents or additional income. Your employer uses IRS withholding tables to determine the appropriate amount to deduct from each paycheck. The goal is to withhold an amount close to your actual annual tax liability so you neither owe a large balance nor receive an excessive refund at tax time.
FICA: Social Security and Medicare
FICA taxes are a fixed percentage deducted from every paycheck: 6.2% for Social Security (on earnings up to $168,600 in 2024) and 1.45% for Medicare (with no income cap). High earners pay an additional 0.9% Medicare surtax on wages exceeding $200,000 for single filers. Your employer matches these contributions dollar for dollar, meaning the total FICA contribution on your behalf is 15.3% of your gross pay.
State Tax Withholding by State
State income tax withholding varies dramatically depending on where you work. Nine states, including Texas, Florida, and Washington, impose no state income tax at all. Among states that do tax income, rates range from a flat 3.07% in Pennsylvania to a progressive system reaching 13.3% in California. Some localities, such as New York City and certain Ohio municipalities, also impose additional local income taxes that further reduce your paycheck.
Common questions
Why is my paycheck so much less than my salary?
Your paycheck is reduced by federal income tax, state income tax (in most states), Social Security (6.2%), Medicare (1.45%), and any pre-tax deductions like health insurance or 401(k) contributions.
What is the FICA tax rate?
FICA tax is 7.65% of your gross pay: 6.2% for Social Security (up to $168,600 in 2024) and 1.45% for Medicare. High earners pay an additional 0.9% Medicare tax on income above $200,000.
How do I adjust my withholding?
File a new W-4 form with your employer. You can increase or decrease withholding by adjusting your filing status, claiming dependents, or entering additional amounts. Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator for guidance.
Estimates for planning only. This tool applies 2024 federal brackets, the standard deduction, the 2024 Social Security wage base, and a flat state rate you enter. It excludes local (city and county) income taxes, tax credits, the Alternative Minimum Tax, and additional per-paycheck withholding from your W-4. Withholding is only an estimate that is reconciled when you file your return. Confirm figures with a tax professional or the IRS before relying on them.